Recreational Opportunities

Overview
With mild and diverse weather and ease of access to the Connecticut River and the Mount Holyoke Range, it is no surprise that South Hadley residents and visitors enjoy a variety of year-round recreational activities. The Connecticut River affords residents and visitors boating and rowing opportunities via several access points including a public boat launch south of the Holyoke Dam and Brunelle’s Marina off Alvord Street.

Conservation Areas
With many conservation areas and the state parks (Skinner State Park and Mount Holyoke Range State Park) situated along the Mount Holyoke Range, the community offers many miles of hiking and walking trails. Some of these same resources provide opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating during winter. Hunting and fishing opportunities are also abundant in and around South Hadley. Similarly, residents and visitors also enjoy bird watching and wildlife photography.

Golf Courses
Two golf courses offer a diversity of golfing opportunities. The Ledges Golf Club, located off Alvord Street, is a new municipal 18-hole course with great views and a driving range and a modern club house. This course is also available for passive recreation throughout the year, particularly during winter. The Orchards Golf Course, a private club managed by Arnold Palmer Golf, and site of the 2004 US Women’s Open, is situated on the Mount Holyoke College campus.